At the age of 75, Dave Rand has been a pivotal figure in the tattooing world for nearly six decades. Since he began his journey in 1966 at just 16 years old, Rand has transformed the landscape of tattoo artistry in the Illawarra region of Australia. His recent induction into the Professional Tattooing Association of Australia Hall of Fame underscores his significant contributions to the craft.
Rand’s tattoo career has been marked by a commitment to both artistry and hygiene. He recalls a time when hygiene practices in tattoo studios were not as stringent as they are today. “I think I’m most proud of bringing high hygiene standards to tattooing because when I first came in, it wasn’t,” he stated. Rand faced considerable pushback during this push for better practices, especially before the rise of awareness surrounding health issues like HIV.
Legacy of Art and Family
The family-run Rand Family Tattoo shop in Warilla serves as a testament to Rand’s legacy. His son, Chris Rand, along with his wife Karen and their daughters, Kiara and Kristen, have all embraced the tattooing profession. Chris, who initially pursued a career in accountancy, made the decision to join his father’s business, highlighting a family tradition that blends creativity with craftsmanship.
Rand expresses immense pride in his family’s involvement in the industry. “They’ve run with it and they’re doing the right thing,” he noted, reflecting on the diverse talents within his family. Each member brings a unique style to the shop: Kiara specializes in fine line tattoos, Kristen focuses on realism and portraits, while Chris leans toward traditional and Japanese art. Dave himself is known for his Asian-inspired designs, which have become a hallmark of his work.
Redefining Tattoo Culture
Rand’s journey began in a time when tattoos were often simplistic, focusing on small designs like hearts and swallows. He sought to elevate the art form by drawing inspiration from Japanese tattoo books, which showcased comprehensive bodysuits and flowing designs. “When I first started doing it in the Illawarra, nobody had ever seen anything like it,” he recalled.
In 1978, Rand opened his first studio in Port Kembla, becoming the sole tattooist in the Illawarra and even the only one between Liverpool and Canberra. His intricate designs, including depictions of birds and koi fish, quickly gained popularity, leading to a bustling studio environment. Despite the demand for his artistry, Rand humorously admits to a lack of personal tattoos, stating, “We were always too busy to get tattooed.”
Today, although he tattoos less frequently, Rand continues to create art for friends and complete unfinished pieces. His journey reflects not only a personal evolution but also a broader transformation within the tattoo industry itself, from its early days to the high standards of artistry and hygiene that characterize it today.
As Rand looks back on his storied career, he remains humble, attributing his success to the support of his family and the evolving nature of tattooing. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of tattoo artists in Australia and beyond.
